6 Fantastic Pizza Restaurants in Memphis, TN

What Is It?

Aldo's Pizza Pies is a local gem in Memphis, celebrated for its scrumptious New York-style pies, chilled atmosphere, and friendly service. Positioned conveniently off Central Avenue in the bustling Cooper-Young District, this pizzeria is perfect for casual dining and group outings, offering patrons a delightful variety of pizzas and sandwiches made from quality ingredients. With a rooftop patio that enhances the dining experience and local brews to sip on, it's no surprise that Aldo's has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.

The Experience

Upon arriving at Aldo's Pizza Pies, you're instantly wrapped in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked pizzas greets you at the door and instantly makes your mouth water. You settle into a comfy table, perhaps on the rooftop, where the city views pair perfectly with the cheerful vibes. As you peruse the menu, your eyes are caught by the impressive selection of creative pies, especially the vodka pizza topped with meatballs, raved about by many regulars. You decide to order a whole pie, eager to dig in and savor every bite.

The friendly staff makes you feel right at home, sharing recommendations and ensuring you have everything you need as you wait for your food. The service is genuinely warm and inviting, with staff going out of their way to make sure you enjoy your meal. When your pizza arrives, it's a sight to behold – perfectly cooked, with the cheese bubbling and a drizzle of rich vodka sauce that ties it all together. The crust is thin and crispy, just like everyone talks about, and the generous toppings leave you with no regrets about indulging in this slice of heaven.

As you revel in your culinary experience, you can’t help but notice that the bustling atmosphere adds to the fun. Friends gather around tables enjoying slices and laughter, while others perch at the bar sharing stories over a refreshing drink. Diners are clearly neighbors, catching up and making the most of their visits. If you have kids, there's even a special touch when the staff brings out dough for them to play with, keeping little hands entertained while you relax.

As your meal winds down, you can't resist trying the garlic knots, another crowd favorite. Served with a side of vodka sauce, they are everything you hoped they’d be – fluffy, tasty, and perfect for dipping. When it's time to leave, you feel satisfied, your taste buds delighted, and knowing you've discovered a delightful corner of Memphis that you'll want to visit again and again.

When to Go

To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed meal at Aldo's, plan your visit during the early afternoon on weekdays or around 2 PM on weekends. This is when the foot traffic tends to be lighter, allowing for a pleasant dining experience without the long waits.

What Is It?

Fox Ridge Pizza Bar and Grill is a cherished spot in Memphis, TN, with a rich history of serving up delightful pizzas, burgers, and a variety of hearty dishes for over 40 years. With a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and friends, it’s a go-to destination for delicious comfort food and local craft brews.

The Experience

Visiting Fox Ridge Pizza Bar and Grill feels like stepping into a cherished local tradition. As you walk through the door, the inviting aroma of freshly baked pizza wraps around you, instantly stirring your appetite. You'll get a warm greeting from the friendly staff, who seem genuinely excited to see both new and familiar faces. On this particular day, you decide to try the Fox Ridge Special pizza, known for its generous toppings that patrons can't stop raving about. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, from the rich sauce to the perfectly balanced blend of cheeses. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Amid munching on your pizza, you notice the cozy yet vibrant atmosphere of the place, an ideal backdrop for catching up with friends or enjoying a casual date night. The music sets a cheerful tone, and it’s easy to see why families flock here, especially since there's a game area for kids. You take a moment to sip on a local craft beer, a perfect complement to the delicious food. As your meal progresses, the attentive service shines through—your server checks on you just often enough to see if you need anything, enhancing the overall experience.

The portions are generous, leaving you happily satiated yet longing to try more from their menu. You spot other tables with plates of crispy wings and colorful chef salads, making mental notes for your next visit. After finishing up, you can't resist grabbing a slice of their mouthwatering calzone to-go, just in case you want to enjoy a little something later. Feeling content and happy, you realize that Fox Ridge has cemented itself as a favorite in your book.

When to Go

For those looking to enjoy a quieter experience, visiting Fox Ridge during the earlier hours of the day, specifically around lunchtime, tends to be more manageable. Patrons appreciate that during these times, they can avoid the peak evening rush, which often sees long waits and full parking lots, making for a more relaxed dining environment.

What Is It?

Garibaldi's Pizza is a beloved family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious pizza, pasta, and sandwiches in Memphis since 1975. With a casual and inviting vibe, it's the perfect spot for a family meal or a date night, making it a true staple in the area.

The Experience

Stepping into Garibaldi's Pizza on Walker Ave feels like visiting an old friend. The moment you enter, the warm, inviting atmosphere greets you, with the smell of freshly baked pizza wafting through the air. You settle down at a booth, and as you browse through the menu, your mouth waters at the descriptions of their famous BBQ chicken pizza or the delightful chicken spinach Alfredo. And don't forget about the toasted ravioli - a spot-on appetizer that everyone seems to rave about!

As you place your order, the staff's friendly demeanor makes you feel right at home. They're more than happy to help you navigate the menu, offering suggestions based on what they know patrons love best. You can see other guests around you enjoying their meals; families laugh and chat over their pizzas, and a game of pinball hums in the background. This spot not only serves good food but also offers a sense of community and connection.

Soon, your pizza arrives, perfectly cooked and oozing with cheese, so hot that it seems to smile at you. You dig in, and each bite is a burst of flavorful goodness - the crust is just the right amount of crispy, and the toppings are generous but not overdone. It's easy to see why so many people keep coming back. Even those who stop in for takeout enjoy the process, with staff efficiently preparing orders while maintaining a cheerful atmosphere.

Before you know it, you’re happily stuffed and considering dessert. You can't resist sharing a chocolate cannoli, which proves to be a sweet but not-too-sweet end to your meal. Feeling satisfied, you glance around, noticing the colorful jukebox and vintage pinball machines that add a nostalgic touch. The casual charm of Garibaldi's makes it an experience you'll surely want to repeat again - and again.

When to Go

For those looking to enjoy Garibaldi's without the hustle and bustle, visiting during mid-afternoon is a smart move. Aim for around 2 or 3 PM when the lunch rush has died down, and you can enjoy a quieter experience while still savoring their delectable offerings.

What Is It?

Little Bettie Pizza & Snacks, located within Wiseacre Brewing's Downtown HQ, serves up an impressive selection of pizzas and snack options that pair perfectly with their craft beers. Known for its inviting and lively atmosphere, Little Bettie is a great spot for casual hangouts with friends and making memorable culinary discoveries. Whether you’re craving a delicious slice or unique appetizer, this place has got you covered!

The Experience

As you step into Little Bettie, the lively vibe hits you right away. It’s not just about the food; it’s an experience worth savoring. Imagine gathering with friends, chatting over cold pints of local brews while diving into a delicious spread of their inventive pizzas. With unique offerings like the Thud Butt and the Popeye pizza, it's clear that the flavor combinations are creative and satisfyingly delicious. Many patrons rave about these standout options, highlighting the addictively tasty toppings like honey glaze or artichoke hearts, which make each bite special.

The space is designed with comfort in mind, featuring ample seating both indoors and out on the patio, perfect for enjoying a sunny day or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Whether you’re sharing pretzel bites smothered in cheese or diving into their famous wings, everything seems to complement the brewery’s beers, giving you a great excuse to explore different flavors while you’re there. You can easily spend hours chatting away, fueled by the friendly service and a laid-back vibe that encourages a casual hangout.

And let’s not forget dessert options or the general appeal of the lively music playing in the background. Guests frequently express their love for the ambiance, making it an integral part of their dining experience. There’s something for everyone, from pizza lovers to those seeking a relaxing spot to catch up with friends. Plus, seeing a mix of locals and visitors enjoying their meals only adds to the friendly spirit.

No one wants to leave hungry, and luckily, most say the portions are generous enough to share, or you can easily save some for later. The enjoyable atmosphere at Little Bettie keeps patrons coming back for more as they create lasting memories one slice at a time!

What Is It?

Little Italy East is a charming New York-style pizzeria that’s been delighting the Memphis community since 2004. With a menu full of delicious pizza, authentic Italian pasta, and a variety of tasty appetizers, this eatery is perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. The welcoming atmosphere, complete with sports on large screen TVs and a community vibe, makes it a great spot for both families and friends alike.

The Experience

Walking into Little Italy East, you can’t help but feel the buzzing energy of the place. The smell of fresh pizza wafts through the air as you glance at the menu filled with mouthwatering options. You decide to take the plunge and go for a couple of huge slices of their renowned fresh mozzarella pizza—an absolute must-have according to friends—and sit down to enjoy the lively atmosphere. The décor featuring images from Italy and the comfortable seating makes it clear that this is more than just a pizza joint.

Your order arrives quickly, just as promised, and the friendly staff greets you with smiles, making you feel right at home. You bite into your slice, and the deliciousness speaks for itself; the crust is perfectly crisp, the mozzarella is delightfully fresh, and the sauce has that authentic tang. Nearby, patrons rave about other favorites too, like the stuffed pizzas and garlic knots, leaving you curious about what to try next time. The kids at a nearby table are happily devouring gigantic portions of spaghetti, proving this place is a family favorite.

As you savor the last bites of pizza, you spot mouthwatering dishes being enjoyed by other guests—a generous lasagna, crispy eggplant rollatini, and even rich tiramisu that gets your attention. Feeling inspired, you promise yourself to bring a few friends next time, especially considering how popular this place seems to be, particularly around lunch and dinner hours. After all, there’s no shortage of choices, from pasta to paninis and everything in between.

Once you’re done, you can’t resist stopping by the counter for a quick chat with the staff, who are exceptionally friendly and welcoming. They share delightful stories about their culinary favorites and suggest trying the Mediterranean pizza next time along with their famous cannoli for dessert. Leaving Little Italy East, you're already daydreaming about your next visit, eager to dive into more deliciousness!

When to Go

If you're looking to avoid the crowd, aiming for earlier in the lunch hour around 11:30 AM or a little after the dinner rush, say around 8 PM, seems to be your best bet. These times typically see fewer patrons, allowing you to enjoy your meal in a more relaxed atmosphere.

What Is It?

Memphis Pizza Cafe is a beloved local spot known for its delicious thin-crust pizzas and calzones served in a casual and friendly atmosphere. Located on Park Avenue, this enduring parlor prides itself on fresh ingredients, tasty toppings, and a great selection that makes every meal a treat for both dining in and takeout.

The Experience

As you step into Memphis Pizza Cafe, the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked pizza greets you, instantly making you feel at home. The casual atmosphere buzzes with the chatter of happy patrons, and you can spot the huge wood-fired oven in full view, where the magic happens. You place your order for the famous Café Supreme pizza – a delightful combination of fresh toppings that's popular among locals—and grab a couple of drinks. The server, full of enthusiasm and friendly energy, suggests trying the BLT pizza as well. Who can resist that kind of recommendation?

Soon enough, your pizzas arrive – piping hot atop perfectly crispy thin crusts. The flavors meld beautifully, bringing together all the best ingredients. You can see other tables enjoying their salads, and you mentally note that this place is a haven for those who appreciate fresh, vibrant foods. The moment you take that first bite, you can’t help but smile at how well the crust holds up under the generous toppings. Not too oily, just right! It’s clearly one of those spots where the love for pizza is evident in every slice.

Amid laughter and chatter, you and your friends toast to the delicious meal you’re sharing, and you can’t help but crack a joke about the classic “slice of life” experience—this is a place where memories are made and laughter shared. For dessert, don't miss out on their apple streusel, which gets rave reviews from regulars able to save room after the main event.

As you settle your bill, others in the café are happily conversing about their favorite toppings, and it feels like a true community. Every time you visit, you leave feeling satisfied, and it’s easy to see why folks return time and time again for that perfect pizza fix from Memphis Pizza Cafe!

When to Go

For those looking to enjoy a quieter meal, early afternoons on weekdays are your best bet. Visiting around 2 PM can help you avoid the after-work crowd, allowing for a more relaxed experience and quicker service. Plus, you'll be able to savor the delicious pizza without the bustle of a busy dinner rush.